The United Kingdom and the European Union are set to formalize a new strategic partnership at a summit on May 19, focusing on defence, trade, and climate cooperation. The agreement aims to strengthen ties between the two entities, allowing joint military procurement, reaffirming support for Ukraine, and addressing economic stability.
Defence and Security Cooperation
A key component of the partnership is a security pact, enabling the UK to participate in the EU’s €150 billion joint defence procurement scheme. This would allow British defence firms access to EU-funded rearmament projects while permitting the EU to acquire UK-manufactured military equipment.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met recently in London to discuss the agreement, with von der Leyen stating that the pact could pave the way for deeper defence collaboration.
Trade and Climate Commitments
The UK and EU reaffirmed their commitment to free trade and global economic stability, emphasizing multilateralism as a guiding principle. The agreement also aligns with the Paris Climate Accords, aiming to limit global temperature increases to 1.5º Celsius.
Fishing Rights and Migration Disputes
Negotiations have also touched on North Sea fishing rights, following a mixed ruling by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The court found that the UK’s ban on North Sea sandeel fishing violated access obligations but dismissed EU claims of discrimination.
Meanwhile, the EU has rejected UK requests for access to its crime and immigration databases, including the Schengen Information System and Eurodac, which store criminal and migrant fingerprint records.
Youth Mobility Agreement Under Discussion
The UK is considering a youth mobility scheme, allowing young Europeans to live and work in Britain for two years, with a reciprocal arrangement for UK citizens in Europe. However, negotiations remain ongoing, with the EU advocating for a three-year visa period, while the UK prefers a one-year cap.
Conclusion
The upcoming May 19 summit marks a significant step in resetting UK-EU relations, balancing defence cooperation, trade agreements, and migration policies. While challenges remain, the partnership signals a renewed commitment to collaboration in an evolving geopolitical landscape.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer meets Ursula von der Leyen Picture on Flickr by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street
